St Andrew's Church, Redbourne, Lincolnshire

In an attempt to kill a few hours before an appointment later in the afternoon, father and I went for a drive in the countryside. Fifteen minutes from Brigg, we came upon a pretty little place called Redbourne where, cosied up in a quiet corner, stood the prettiest church which dated back to the 13th century.
The immensely tall tower is the first thing that attracts the attention. In fact, on first sight, it looks like a building all on its own. However, on closer inspection, the overhanging trees reveal a magnificent mediaeval church.

When entering the church, one is drawn to the intricate glass windows, vibrantly stained with the apostles. The colours are just indescribable, so incredibly vivid. The most striking stained glass however, and perhaps the most striking feature of the church itself, is the east window designed by Francis Danby and executed by William Collins in 1832; enamelled glass depicting the opening of the sixth seal (Revelation, Chapter VI). It is a vivid rendition of the Day of Judgment, a darkened sun, a bloodied moon, the fires of hell and lightning from heaven.
There are other points of interest. If one is brave enough (unafraid of small cramped spaces and dark unknowns) the bell tower is the perfect place to visit. The six bells cast by Henry Harrrison in 1774 are wonderful to view and without a bat in sight!

These are the stairs - very narrow and very steep.

Back in the light and onto firmer ground, there is a monument on the northside of the church dedicated to Sir Gerard Sothill, complete with latin inscription. As well as this, there are several 18th and 19th century tablets, dedicated to the lords and ladies of the areas, some with very comical inscriptions, the best and most delightful being the one to a woman named Charlotte, wife of Robert Carter Thelwall. After mourning her passing (1780) and extolling her virtues, expressing the dearest wish to be beside her, his own death is recorded (1787). So far it all sounds lovely... but underneath, as if in an afterthought is written: He was again made happy in a second marriage to Hannah Spooner. Brilliant!
Overall, it was a wonderful visit and not only did it kill the hours but it was an educational experience that I would to love repeat.